Should I visit Derby or Crewe station?

RailwayRookie · 6 Aug 2026

I have a long journey tomorrow that passes both Crewe and Derby by car (or Birmingham but I'd rather not), but i also have all day to do it so was planning to stop off at either for a little spotting.

Does anyone have good recommendations on which would be more interesting to go to? And if its better to use the main station of people know good alternate places to watch the world go by?

Thanks in advance!

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kevconnor · 6 Aug 2026

Given the problems today in the Manchester area are going to stretch into tomorrow too, you may do better with Derby.

GRALISTAIR · 7 Aug 2026

To me, Crewe was in my day, and always will be the mecca for trains.

ac6000cw · 7 Aug 2026

If it makes a difference to you, Derby is all-diesel whereas Crewe is mixed electric and diesel.

Other good alternative places might be Stafford or Nuneaton, if those fit in with your overall route.

Kite159 · 7 Aug 2026

Crewe will have more variety than Derby, although not much in the way of freight (as the freight generally uses the independent lines to bypass the station.

MalaiseForever · 7 Aug 2026

Definitely Crewe!

birchesgreen · 10 Aug 2026

Stafford is pretty decent as well. I go to Derby a lot but it can be a bit hit and miss these days.

BRcrosslane · 13 Aug 2026

Crewe Casey Lane, Weston, park next to the bridge in the layby. Path at edge of field, raised area for standing on and getting a good view of all movements.Check RTT first so you know what is due

Should I visit Derby or Crewe station?

RailwayRookie

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kevconnor

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GRALISTAIR

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ac6000cw

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Kite159

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MalaiseForever

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birchesgreen

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BRcrosslane

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